What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator, Architectural Metal Systems position at Wade Architectural Systems?
Who We Are
Wade Architectural Systems is a representative and preconstruction partner for multiple high-performance metal panel, cladding, and roof systems used across commercial, institutional, industrial, and multifamily construction. We work in the space between manufacturers, architecture firms, and installation contractors. Our job is to make sure what an architect designs can be accurately estimated, correctly detailed, and cleanly installed in the field.
Estimation accuracy is one of the core reasons customers choose us. This role sits at the center of that.
What You'll Do
You will turn architectural drawings and specifications into accurate, complete, defensible numbers. Day to day, that looks like:
• Project assessment. Evaluate drawings, specifications, and project documentation against available represented manufactures. Know when the specified product fits and when an alternate needs to be discussed.
• Constructability Assessment. Review details, transitions, penetrations, and edge conditions with an eye for what can actually be built in the field.
• Takeoffs. Using Digital Takeoff Software, account for waste, accessories, trim, fasteners, and scope boundaries so installers can bid with confidence.
• Create Estimates. Use take off data to develop material and cost projections. Build and maintain estimating spreadsheets in Excel. Provide clear data that can be altered at the request of the customer or if multiple options are required.
• Pricing coordination. Work with our manufacturer partners to obtain, verify, and assemble current pricing. Track pricing changes and keep quotes built on real numbers.
• Proposal building. Assemble clear, complete proposals and quotations that define system, scope, accessories, and terms.
• Scope Determination. Define inclusions and exclusions on every bid opportunity. Identify gaps in bid documents and flag them before they become change orders.
• Historical Cost Data. Gather historical cost data, compare actuals against estimates on completed work, and make the next estimate better than the last.
• Communication. Discuss estimates, adjustments, and scope questions directly with coworkers, installers, architects, general contractors, and manufacturer reps. You are a technical resource.
• Order Management - support project coordination during handoff from estimate to order.
What We're Looking For
• Experience in construction, estimating, quantity takeoff, or preconstruction. Building envelope, metal panels, roofing, cladding, or glazing experience is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings and specifications.
• Strong working command of Excel: building spreadsheets.
• Solid applied math: quantities, areas, unit conversions, margins.
• Spatial Awareness: Understanding Conflicting Elevations, sections or work out of plane.
• High accuracy under deadlines. Estimating rewards people who check their own work.
• Clear written and verbal communication. You'll be talking with estimators, PMs, architects, and reps with many years of experience.
• Organized enough to run multiple estimates at different stages at the same time.
• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field, or equivalent field experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Teams and Sharepoint. Experience with Digital Takeoff Software such as OST or Bluebeam. Familiarity with online plan rooms such as ConstructConnect, Procore or Isqft.
• We will train you on our products, In-house database and quote system.
What It's Like to Work Here
Small, experienced team. A positive work environment where people look out for each other. Direct access to the people who make decisions. Your estimates will not disappear into a queue; they win or lose real projects, and you'll see the results. We value people who do the work right, flag problems early, and look out for each other.
Compensation and Benefits
• Competitive pay plus bonus opportunities
• Health insurance: medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans
• Retirement savings plan (401K) with company contribution
• Paid holidays and vacation (PTO)